Toyota has expanded its popular Corolla Cross lineup with the introduction of the all-new 2023 Toyota Corolla Cross Hybrid, bringing enhanced performance and superior fuel efficiency to the compact SUV segment. Building on the trusted foundation of the Corolla sedan, this hybrid model is designed to appeal to entry SUV customers seeking a versatile, economical, and fun-to-drive vehicle. The 2023 Corolla Cross Hybrid, alongside its gasoline counterpart launched in 2021, marks a significant milestone as it is assembled in the U.S. at the Mazda Toyota Manufacturing plant in Huntsville, Alabama.
Enhanced Hybrid Performance and All-Wheel Drive
The Toyota Corolla Cross Hybrid comes standard with Electronic All-Wheel Drive (AWD), maximizing the capabilities of the robust TNGA-C platform. This combination results in a vehicle that delivers not only a comfortable and refined ride but also impressive spaciousness and cargo capacity, ready for any adventure life throws your way.
Under the hood, the Corolla Cross Hybrid boasts the cutting-edge Fifth Generation Toyota Hybrid System. This advanced system, paired with the Electronic All-Wheel Drive, provides a significant boost in both power and fuel economy. Drivers can enjoy 196 horsepower and a brisk 0-60 mph acceleration in approximately 8.0 seconds. Despite this enhanced performance, the Corolla Cross Hybrid achieves an outstanding EPA-estimated 42 combined miles per gallon across all grades, making it a leader in fuel efficiency for its class.
Trim Levels and Feature Highlights
The 2023 Corolla Cross Hybrid is offered in three distinct grades to cater to various preferences and needs: S, SE, and XSE.
The base S grade and the SE grade both come equipped with sporty 17-inch alloy wheels, an intuitive 8-inch touchscreen display for infotainment, a sport-tuned suspension for engaging driving dynamics, energy-efficient LED headlights and taillights, and convenient smart key access.
Stepping up to the SE grade adds further enhancements, including privacy glass for rear passengers, practical roof rails for added cargo versatility, and paddle shifters for a more engaging driving experience. Crucially, the SE grade also includes standard Blind-Spot Monitor (BSM) and Rear Cross Traffic Alert (RCTA) systems, enhancing safety and driver awareness.
The top-of-the-line XSE grade builds upon the SE’s features, presenting the sportiest iteration of the Corolla Cross Hybrid. It upgrades to larger 18-inch alloy wheels and premium LED headlights, taillights, and fog lights for improved visibility and a more upscale appearance. Inside, the XSE trim features comfortable SofTex-trimmed seats, including heated front seats and a power-adjustable driver’s seat for optimal comfort and convenience.
For those seeking a bolder look, the SE and XSE grades offer striking two-tone exterior color combinations. These include Sonic Silver with a Black Roof, Barcelona Red with a Black Roof, Blue Crush Metallic with a Black Roof, and the all-new Acidic Blast with a Black Roof. Single-tone color options are also available across the lineup, including Wind Chill Pearl (premium color), Sonic Silver Metallic, Jet Black Mica, Barcelona Red Metallic, Cypress, and Blue Crush Metallic.
The interior of the Corolla Cross Hybrid mirrors the spaciousness and user-friendly design found in other Corolla models. Available features in higher grades include a power moonroof, and single- or dual-zone automatic climate control. Importantly, all grades come standard with rear-seat heating and air conditioning vents, ensuring passenger comfort in all conditions.
Interior color options for the 2023 Corolla Cross Hybrid vary by grade:
- S: Black/Gray fabric-trimmed seats
- SE: Black/Gray or Black/Blue fabric-trimmed seats
- XSE: Black or Black/Blue SofTex®-trimmed seats
Advanced Technology and Connectivity
The 2023 Corolla Cross Hybrid comes standard with Toyota’s latest Multimedia System across all grades. This system offers wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility, along with additional USB-C charging ports to keep devices powered up on the go.
Developed by Toyota’s Connected Technologies team, the Toyota Audio Multimedia system provides a host of enhanced connectivity and convenience features. Over-the-Air (OTA) updates keep the system current, while intuitive touch and voice activation controls offer seamless user interaction. With an available Connected Service Drive Connect trial or subscription, drivers can access Intelligent Assistant, Cloud Navigation, and Destination Assist. Intelligent Assistant responds to voice commands like “Hey Toyota” for tasks such as getting directions, finding points of interest, adjusting audio, and changing cabin temperature. Cloud Navigation uses real-time cloud data for the most current maps, traffic information, and routing. Destination Assist provides 24/7 live agent support to help locate destinations.
The Toyota Audio Multimedia system also supports dual Bluetooth phone connectivity and includes a Wi-Fi Connect subscription option, turning the Corolla Cross Hybrid into an AT&T Hotspot for up to five devices. In addition to HD Radio, USB data, and a SiriusXM Platinum Plan trial, the Wi-Fi Connect subscription enables Integrated Streaming, allowing users to link their Apple Music and Amazon Music subscriptions for in-vehicle control.
Comprehensive Safety Features and Warranty
Every 2023 Corolla Cross Hybrid is equipped with Toyota Safety Sense 3.0 (TSS 3.0), Toyota’s suite of active safety systems. This includes Pre-Collision System with Pedestrian Detection (now capable of detecting motorcyclists in certain conditions), Lane Departure Alert with Steering Assist, Lane Tracing Assist, and Dynamic Radar Cruise Control (DRCC). The system is also designed to detect oncoming vehicles when making turns or approaching intersections, providing alerts and automatic braking if necessary. Automatic High Beams and Road Sign Assist are also standard features.
Further standard safety features include Rear Seat Reminder, Blind Spot Monitor (BSM), and Rear Cross Traffic Alert (RCTA), along with Hill Start Assist Control (HAC).
Toyota stands behind the quality and reliability of the Corolla Cross Hybrid with a comprehensive warranty. This includes a 36-month/36,000-mile basic new-vehicle warranty, 60-month/60,000-mile powertrain warranty, and 60-month corrosion perforation warranty. Hybrid components are covered for 8 years/100,000 miles, and the hybrid battery is covered for 10 years/150,000 miles. The 2023 Corolla Cross Hybrid also comes with ToyotaCare, providing complimentary factory-scheduled maintenance for two years or 25,000 miles and 2 years of Roadside Assistance.
In conclusion, the 2023 Toyota Corolla Cross Hybrid offers a compelling blend of fuel efficiency, performance, technology, and safety, making it an excellent choice for those seeking a versatile and modern compact SUV. With its range of grades and available features, the Corolla Cross Hybrid is well-positioned to meet the diverse needs of today’s drivers.
